Rackets for French Days

Tennis: headsize, weight and balance

Three factors describe a tennis racket. The headsize, in square centimetres: above 670, like on the Head Instinct PWR or the Wilson Allure, it forgives off-centre hits and makes power easier; around 630 to 650, like on the Head Speed MP or the Wilson Blade, it offers more control. The weight, unstrung: from 265 to 290 grams, like the Tecnifibre T-Fit, it’s easy to handle; above 300, it stabilises shots for advanced players. Lastly, balance, head-heavy for power, and handle-heavy for volleying control. The lighter L versions follow the same frames.

The rest of the equipment

The French Days rackets also include:

• Shoes.
• Bags.
• Polos.
• Shirts.
• Shorts / Skirts.

All the offers are gathered on the racket sports page.

The rackets of great champions

Many players choose the racket of their idol. The Babolat Pure Aero, with its aerodynamic profile designed for spin, has accompanied Rafael Nadal and supports Carlos Alcaraz. The Head Speed, known for its arm speed and versatility, is used by Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner. The Wilson Pro Staff, with a slim and precise frame, is associated with Roger Federer. These models come in various weights: the version played on the circuit, often heavier and more demanding, may not always suit a club player, who benefits from selecting the lighter version of the same frame.

Junior racket: length according to age

A junior racket is chosen based on its length, measured in inches, according to the child's age and especially their height. The nineteen inches fits around three to four years, the twenty-one inches around four to six years, the twenty-three inches around six to eight years, the twenty-five inches around eight to ten years, and the twenty-six inches prepares for the transition to adult. To check, the child holds the racket with their arm extended along their body: the head should just touch the floor. The Babolat Drive junior, Carlitos, a nod to Carlos Alcaraz, and the Wilson Slam are available in various lengths, with either an aluminium or graphite frame.

Padel and squash: two other racket families

The padel racket has no strings: it's a solid pala, perforated with holes, limited to 45.5 cm in length, with inner rubber providing the hitting sensation. The Head Speed Motion focuses on versatility, the Head Coello Pro represents Arturo Coello's racket, and the adidas Metalbone is designed for power, used by Alejandro Galán. The squash racket, measuring at most 68.6 cm, is very light, often between 110 and 160 grams, allowing for quick ball whipping in a confined space. The Prince Phoenix Pro prioritises manoeuvrability during fast exchanges against the wall.

Frequently asked questions

Which tennis racket should a beginner choose?

A lightweight racket, between 250 and 280 grams, with a wide head and a forgiving frame, like the Babolat Evoke. It forgives imperfect hits and is easy on the arm during learning.

How do you choose the grip size?

Measure the distance from the middle fold of the palm to the tip of the ring finger: it corresponds to the grip size, from zero to five in Europe. Between two sizes, take the smaller one and add an overgrip if needed.

When should you restring your tennis racket?

A simple rule is to restring as many times per year as you play times per week. A string that loses tension, shifts, or produces overly long balls should be changed without delay.

Pickleball racket or padel: what's the difference?

The pickleball racket, smaller and solid, without holes, hits a perforated plastic ball. The padel racket, thicker and perforated, sends back a pressurised ball similar to that of tennis.

Aluminium or graphite racket for a child?

Aluminium, strong and economical, is suitable for beginners and younger players. Graphite, lighter and stiffer, helps a child who plays in a club several times a week to hit harder without tiring.